Issuu

www.impactoevangelistico.net

THE MAGAZINE THAT EDIFIES YOUR LIFE

January 2018 / Edition 768

evangelistic OFFICIAL PUBLICATION

WORLDWIDE MISSIONARY MOVEMENT

LIFE STORY

Martha’s shocking life DEVOTIONAL

New year, new life CURRENT AFFAIRS

CREDIBILITY, 2018’s motto

Men and women: Equal, but with different roles

NEITHER MORE

NOR LESS

Convención Nacinonal

National Convention

Santa Rosita Municipal Coliseum from January 26 to 29

MOVIMENTO MISSIONARY MONDIALE BOLIVIA MISSIONARY MOVEMENT 2 WORLDWIDE America • Europe • Oceanía • África • Asia

editorial

THE TIME TO WAKE UP, STAND UP AND

PREACH HAS ARRIVED!

Rev. Gustavo Martínez Presidente Internazionale del MMM

“Enlarge the place of thy tent, and let them stretch forth the curtains of thine habitations: spare not, lengthen thy cords, and strengthen thy stakes; for thou shalt break forth on the right hand and on the left; and thy seed shall inherit the Gentiles, and make the desolate cities to be inhabited”. Isaiah 54:2-3

1 years ago, in a Worldwide Congress of the

yourself with a microphone at a radio station or

Work, the Lord told us that the most so-

on TV preaching the Gospel, but it is necessary

phisticated media would be at the service of the

to do it; do not be afraid, do not think you are

WMM. Now, we realize that announcement has

not good for it, dare to do great things!

come true.

If we want to enlarge the Work, our vision

The Bible states, “Enlarge the place of thy

must be wider. We have to pray more, fast more,

tent, and let them stretch forth the curtains

study the Bible more, consecrate more; it is ne-

of thine habitations” (Isaiah 54:2). When so-

cessary to have a live filled with devotion, inter-

meone starts a ministry, any space is useful; but

cession and humiliation before God. We must

when a worker has experience, he will surely look

prepare our hearts to expect great things from

for a large property, as his vision is wide. We can-

the Lord, that is why the Bible states, “And let

not expect God to make big things if our vision is

them stretch forth the curtains of thine habi-

limited; we must have a wide vision.

tations” (Isaiah 54:2).

In Genesis 13:15, God announces to Abra-

The Lord will continue to put aside those

ham, “…Lift up now thine eyes, and look

who are disloyal and do not have God in their

from the place where thou art northward, and

hearts, those who only profit from the Gospel;

southward, and eastward, and westward. For

He will replace them with new members, who

all the land which thou seest, to thee will I

are worthy of Him. The time is short and there

give it, and to thy seed forever”. Jesus told his

are not enough workers; therefore, it is necessary

disciples, “Go ye into all the world, and preach the

to use media. The time to wake up, stand up and

gospel to every creature” (Mark 16:15). We will

preach has arrived!

go to the most remote places of Earth!

God will call men and women, and will lead

If we believe this promise, we have to pro-

them to many nations. There is a great need of

ject ourselves and develop in areas we had never

earning a great crop, of preaching the powerful

thought of. Perhaps, you have never imagined

message, of saying “Christ is coming soon!”

january 2018 / Impacto evangelistic

www.impactoevangelistico.net

evangelistic Founder Director: Rev. Luis M. Ortiz JANUARY 2018 / EDITION N° 768 (USPS 012-850) OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE WORLDWIDE MISSIONARY MOVEMENT The World-Wide Missionary Movement, Inc. is a non-profit church with a vision to plant new churches in the United States of America and its territories, and also with a missionary vision to plant new churches wherever God opens new doors all over the World. PUBLISHED MONTHLY BY Movimiento Misionero Mundial, Inc World-Wide Missionary Movement, Inc San Juan, Puerto Rico Washington, D.C. Periodicals Postage Paid at San Juan, Puerto Rico 00936

POSTMASTER: send address changes to Impacto Evangelístico P.O. BOX 363644 San Juan, Puerto Rico 00936-3644 Phone (787) 761-8806; 761-8805; 761-8903

INTERNATIONAL BOARD MEMBERS OF WMM INC. Rev. Gustavo Martínez President Rev. José Soto Vice President Rev. Rubén Concepción Secretary Rev. Rodolfo González Treasurer Rev. Álvaro Garavito Director Rev. Margaro Figueroa Director Rev. Rómulo Vergara Director Rev. Humberto Henao Director Rev. Luis Meza Director CHURCHES ESTABLISHED IN: Germany Argentina Aruba Australia Austria Belgium Belize Bolivia Bonaire Brasil Cameroon Canadá Chile Colombia Congo Ivory Coast Costa Rica Curacao Dinamarca Ecuador El Salvador Spain United States The Philippines Finland

France Gabón Ghana Guatemala Equatorial Guinea French Guiana Guyana Inglesa Haití Holland Honduras India England St. Andres Island (Col.) Saint Martin Island Island of Mauritius Rodrigues Island Canaries Islands (Spain) Hawaiian Islands (U.S.A.) Israel Italy Jamaica Japan Kuwait

Madagascar Malaysa México Myanmar Nicaragua Nigeria Oman Panamá Paraguay Peru Portugal Puerto Rico Dominican Republic Romania Sri Lanka Sweden Switzerland South Africa Surinam Trinidad and Tobago Ukranian Uruguay Venezuela

The Worldwide Missionary Movement is a religious nonprofit organization duly registered in San Juan, Puerto Rico, and in the federal capital, Washington DC, with headquarters in both cities and in every state of the United States and other countries where we have established missionary Works. Important The offerings and donations in cash, equipment, real estate and bequests by will, in the benefit of the Worldwide Missionary Movement, Inc.’s Work, are deductible from the income tax, and receipts issued by the WMM are recognized by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) of the Federal Government of the United States of America and of the Free Associated State of Puerto Rico. n

Visit our website Obtain uplifting information about God’s Work and keep up with the latest news. A customized access from anywhere in the world: www. impactoevangelistico.net n

If you wish Write to us at our postal address: Worldwide Missionary Movement, Inc. PO Box 363644 San Juan, P. R. 00936-3644 n

Copyright © 2009 Impacto Evangelistic Movimiento Misionero Mundial, Inc. (World-Wide Missionary Movement, Inc.) All content of this magazine and each subsequent edition are duly registered at the Library of Congress, Washington, DC USA. All rights reserved. Total or partial reproduction in any form and translation into other languages without prior permission of the Director are prohibited. Under international copyright agreements, they are crimes punishable by law. n

Doctrinal Statement The Worldwide Missionary Movement adheres to the fundamental doctrines of Scripture, such as: n

Legal deposit made on the National Library of Peru Nº 2011-02530 Christian Pentecostal Church-Worldwide Missionary Movement: Av. 28 de Julio 1781 - Lima 13 - Peru Printout: Quad/Graphics Perú S.A. Av. Los Frutales 344 - Lima 03 - Peru MISSIONARY MOVEMENT 4 WORLDWIDE America • Europe • Oceanía • África • Asia

• The inspiration of the Holy Scriptures: 2 Timothy 3:15-17, 2 Peter 1:19-21. • The Adorable Godhead in Three Persons, Father, Son and Holy Spirit: Matthew 3:16-17, 17: 1-5; 28:19, John 17: 5, 24, 26, 16:32, 14:16, 23, 18:5, 6, 2 Peter 1:17,18; Revelation 5. • Salvation by Faith in Christ: Luke 24:47, John 3:16, Romans 10:13, Titus 2:11, 3:5-7. • The New Birth: John 3:3, 1 Peter 1:23, 1 John 3:9. • Justification by Faith: Romans 5:1, Titus 3:7. • Water Baptism by Inmersion, as commanded by Christ: Matthew 28:19, Acts 8:36-39. • The Baptism in the Holy Spirit subsequent to salvation, speaking in tongues according to: Luke 24:49, Acts 1:4, 8, 2:4. • Divine Healing: Isaiah 53:4, Matthew 8:16, 17, Mark 16:18, James 5:14, 15. • The Gifts of the Holy Spirit: 1 Corinthians 12:1-11. • The Fruits of the Holy Spirit: Galatians 5:22-26. • Sanctification: 1 Thessalonians 4:3, 5:23, Hebrews 12:14, 1 Peter 1:15, 16, 1 John 2:6. • Ministry and Evangelization: Mark 16:15-20, Romans 10:15. • Tithing and Maintenance of the Work: Genesis 14:20, 28:22, Leviticus 27:30, Numbers 18:21-26, Malachi 3:7-10, Matthew 10:10; 23:23. • The Rapture of the Church: Romans 8:23, 1 Corinthians 15:5152, 1 Thessalonians 4:16-17. • The Second Coming of Christ: Zechariah 14:1-9, Matthew 24:30, 31; 2 Thessalonians 1:7, Titus 2:13, Jude 14, 15. • The Millennial Kingdom: Isaiah 2:1-4, 11:5-10, Zechariah 9:10, Revelation 19:20, 20:3-10. • New Heavens and New Earth: Isaiah 65:17, 66:22, 2 Peter 3:13, Revelation 21:1.

SUMMARY www.facebook.com/impactoevangelistico

24 / LITERATURE. Eternal safety 28 / MUSIC. My God is real DEVOTIONALS 40 / NEW YEAR, NEW LIFE Rev. Luis M. Ortiz

42 / THER EIS A PURPOSE BEHIND EACH PROBLEM. Rev. Gustavo Martínez

Men and women: Equal, but with different roles

Interview

22 / HEALTH. Be careful with ulcer

Cover note

16 / MOTTO. Credibility 2018

Hero of faith Life Story

Search us in

Martha's new path

The Bible A missionary was kidnap- in China ped for a millennium”

30 18

44 - 64 / INTERNATIONAL EVENTS. 65 / OTHER EVENTS.

14 / Infography.

66 / LETTERS-AGENDA.

january 2018 / Impacto evangelistic

This subject is the cause of heated social, and even political, debates in most countries worldwide. Countless feminist groups have appeared demanding equal treatment. In many cases, these groups have questioned Christianity, blaming it of sexism, while it is not the truth. What is the biblical perspective of women? Here we give you the answer. Becky Stelzer (*)

Modern extreme feminism places women in authority over men, while traditional Darwinian evolution places women far below men. And since the Bible directs that a wife be in submission to her husband, even Christians may wonder, “Is the woman inferior or equal?” God’s creation of the first male and female appearing in Genesis gives a clear picture that is extremely different from evolutionary views in our culture. God designed both the man and woman in His own image equally (Genesis 1:26– 27). Adam was created first, but God decreed that it was not good for man to be alone (Genesis 2:18). Therefore, God fashioned Eve out of Adam’s rib. The well-known Bible commentator Matthew Henry said that Eve was “made of a rib out of the side of Adam; not made out of his head to rule over him, nor out of his feet to be trampled upon by him, but out of his side to be equal with him, under his arm to be protected, and near his heart to be beloved.” “BEING SUBMISSIVE”

Many women believe that the Bible’s command for wives to “submit to your own husbands, as to the Lord” (Ephesians 5:22-23) places a woman in an inMISSIONARY MOVEMENT 6 WORLDWIDE America • Europe • Oceanía • África • Asia

cover

MEN AND WOMEN:

EQUAL, BUT WITH DIFFERENT ROLES

january 2018 / Impacto evangelistic

ferior role to her husband. However, this is not the case The concept of submission is found throughout the Bible. One of the keys to maintaining the order God desires is recognizing the authority structure He established. Of course, the best example of one who submitted to authority is our Creator and Redeemer, Jesus Christ, who submitted to God and fulfilled the role He was called to by the Father (Matthew 26:36–39; Philippians 2:5–8). The Creator chose to form man first and to entrust him the role of a leader at home, for His glory. Obviously, man is not the ultimate authority, but is also under authority (1 Corinthians 11:3). The Bible commands the husband to be a loving servant leader who models the sacrificial love that Christ has showered on the church (Ephesians 5:23–33)—a love that led to His death on the Cross on our behalf. God assigned the married woman the responsibility of being a helpmate to her husband (Genesis 2:18, 20). A helpmate (or helper) is a position of great responsibility and gentle strength. It is not a posi-

Eve was “made of a rib out of the side of Adam; not made out of his head to rule over him, nor out of his feet to be trampled upon by him, but out of his side to be equal with him, under his arm to be protected, and near his heart to be beloved.”

tion of weakness as often associated with the command of submission (Ephesians 5). A godly helpmate entrusts herself to God, follows her husband’s lead, and uses her gifts and abilities to effectively support and aid her husband. Josh Harris, author and speaker, reaffirms this biblical teaching in his book “Boy Meets Girl.” MISSIONARY MOVEMENT 8 WORLDWIDE America • Europe • Oceanía • África • Asia

From the first two chapters of the Bible we learn that Adam and Eve were created equal in God’s sight. Within the context of their equality, God assigned men and women different roles. He made Adam first, signifying his unique role as leader and initiator. He created Eve from Adam and brought her to Adam to be his helper in the tasks God had assigned

him. She was made to complement, nourish, and help her husband. God’s greatest gift to man was “a helper suitable for him” (Genesis 2:18). This doesn’t minimize a woman’s role, but it does define it. Men and women were created equal, yet different. And the fact that we’re different is wonderful. God didn’t make us to duplicate each

cover

other, but to complement each other. The point here is not that Adam was better than Eve, just as God the Father is not “better” than God the Son. Father and Son are equal in essence, power, glory, but they have different roles; and the Son joyfully submits to the Father’s will (1 Corinthians 15:28). So in marriage a husband and wife are equal, even though

Scripture tells the wife to joyfully submit to her husband’s leadership. Even with these truths, some women struggle to follow and thereby to fulfill the Bible’s requirements for godly womanhood. The husband, as the God-ordained leader of the home, can make his wife’s mandate to submit easier by also obeying God’s command to love his wife,

“just as Christ also loved the church” (Ephesians 5:25, 28–29; 1 Peter 3). Both husbands and wives must realize that God’s plans are always for our good and that following them brings us happiness and fulfillment (Psalm 23; 33:18–22; 34:8–22). But when we attempt to reverse God’s lovingly prescribed order, we disobey His commands,

january 2018 / Impacto evangelistic

MISSIONARY MOVEMENT 10 WORLDWIDE America • Europe • Oceanía • África • Asia

cover

just as our first parents did only a few thousand years ago in the Garden of Eden. WOMEN IN THE BIBLE

Throughout the Old and New Testaments, God records the virtuous actions of women. Most are described in their role as homemaker, but a number are singled out as workers beyond the home setting. Deborah was a judge in Israel ( Judges 4) as well as a wife; Lydia was a seller of purple fabrics (Acts 16:14). The maidservant of Naaman’s wife told her master about possible healing for Naaman’s disease (2 Kings 5:3–4). Miriam, the sister of Aaron and Moses, led the Israelite women in celebration and worship, singing and dancing as they came out of Egypt (Exodus 15:20–21). The noble wife described in Proverbs 31 was wise, a beloved mother, a businesswoman, charitable, strong, and unafraid of heavy work. Queen Esther used her position as the wife of the Persian king to save her people, the Israelites. These women used their God-given abilities in many different roles. Whether married or single, whether in prominent positions or in humble service, these women focused on doing what God called them to do. Their obedience is what God values and highlights in His Word. TODAY’S WOMEN

Modern culture has placed expectations on women. In the United States and other Western nations, women are expected to strive for prominent positions in politics, the workplace, and the education system. Often, Christian women buy into a worldly mindset of “reaching one’s potential” in society, and they associate their value with these achievements. Another social pressure is for a woman to compare herself to others and base her value on that comparison. But this mindset is focused on the earthly and not the heavenly, as it should be for Christians ( James 3:13–17). Men and women alike bear the image of God (Genesis 1:27) and are sin-

january 2018 / Impacto evangelistic

ners equally in need of His saving grace (Galatians 3:28). Christ redeems sinners who deserve eternity in Hell. A Christian woman can glory in following after Christ and being conformed into His image (Romans 12:1–2). The Lord admonishes, “Let not the wise man glory in his wisdom, let not the mighty man glory in his might, nor let the rich man glory in his riches; but let him who glories glory in this, that he understands and knows

Throughout the Old and New Testaments, God records the virtuous actions of women. Most are described in their role as homemaker, but a number are singled out as workers beyond the home setting.

Me, that I am the Lord, exercising lovingkindness, judgment, and righteousness in the earth. For in these I delight” ( Jeremiah 9:23-24). Christian women can find purpose in following God’s plan for them. The following verses outline His plan: Genesis 2:18; Proverbs 1:8, 12:4; 1 Corinthians 7:2–5; Ephesians 5:22, 33; Colossians 3:18; 1 Timothy 2:9–15, 3:11, 5:9–10, 14; Titus 2:3–6; 1 Peter 3:1–6. Although the Bible does not prohibit achieving prominence in the workplace or acquiring possessions, Christian women should not glory in these things. Instead, our primary goal should be to seek after the things that God delights in, beginning with a personal relationship with Him and obedience to His Word.

(*) Originally published in “Answers” magazine

MISSIONARY MOVEMENT 12 WORLDWIDE America • Europe • Oceanía • África • Asia

cover

january 2018 / Impacto evangelistic

Women in the Bible

BIBLIA

Throughout the Old and New Testament, God has recorded virtuous actions of women. Most of them are housewives, but there are some who work outside their homes.

A PERFECT COMPLEMENT Genesis, which narrates the creation of the first man and the first woman by God, states an outlook highly different from the evolutionary ideas of our culture. God designed both men and women in His own image (Genesis 1:26-27). Adam was created first, but God established that it was not good for the man to be alone (Genesis 2:18). Therefore, he took one of Adam’s ribs and creaded Eve. MISSIONARY MOVEMENT 14 WORLDWIDE America • Europe • Oceanía • África • Asia

Genesis 2:18

And the Lord God said, “It is not good that the man should be alone; I will make him an help meet for him.”

Today’s woman

Modern culture has created certain expectations in women. In United States and other western countries, women are expected to fight for prominent job positions in politics, at work and in the educational system. Frequently, Christian women adopt the mindset of this world, seeking to reach “their potential” in the society; and they associate their personal value with these achievements.

“

GOD DESIGNED BOTH MEN AND WOMEN IN HIS OWN IMAGE. EVEN SO, THEY WERE DESIGNED TO COMPLY WITH DIFFERENT ROLES. Ephesians 5:22,33

Wives, submit yourselves unto your own husbands, as unto the Lord. Nevertheless, let every one of you in particular so love his wife even as himself; and the wife see that she reverence her husband.

James 3:17

But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, and easy to be intreated, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality, and without hypocrisy.

”

1 Corinthians 7:3–4

Let the husband render unto the wife due benevolence: and likewise also the wife unto the husband. The wife hath not power of her own body, but the husband: and likewise also the husband hath not power of his own body, but the wife.

january 2018 / Impacto evangelistic

AS it is customary every year, the President of the Worldwide Missionary Movement (WMM), Rev. Gustavo Martínez Garavito, revealed the slogan that will encourage the Work for the next twelve months. This time, the chosen slogan is CREDIBILITY.

Rev. Gustavo Martínez

After being at prayer for long periods of time, trying to realize God’s will concerning the slogan for this year, I was able to receive His inspiration. God has been influencing and building our character these last years. The training has been based on practicing and living in sincerity, communion and service, in surrendering our will and being committed to Him, in learning to submit, to keep the doctrine, to have conviction, and being faithful, fair and responsible. Our character shows who we really are, our inner self rather than our appearance, the expression of our heart, mind and soul, the reality of our actions rather than good deeds. Character is fundamentally based on the heart and we must protect it from the weakness of flesh and offer it wholeheartedly to the Spirit to bear fruit. Character neither matures from one day to the next nor appears out of nowhere. It is the result of an intentional and continuous process of learning to adjust to the expectations of God, His Word and the alliance of the Holy Spirit, overcoming the obstacles and trusting that God will help us in our way. Therefore, I gladly present the official slogan of the Worldwide MissioMISSIONARY MOVEMENT 16 WORLDWIDE America • Europe • Oceanía • África • Asia

motto

nary Movement (WMM) for this year: CREDIBILITY, a quality that inspires confidence. This word comes from the Latin “credibiles” and refers to the quality of being trustworthy and deserving of that trust. Credibility relates to the objective and subjective elements that make other people believe the content of a message. Credibility is the trust, security, sense of welfare and utility that compels someone to follow the person that reflects it. Credibility is basic in social relationships. It is the result of the coherent interaction of all the qualities of character. We live in times of great distrust. Most of public and private organizations and institutions worldwide have lost credibility, causing a deep crisis of confidence for citizens. It is alarming the lack of exemplariness in society, institutions, politicians, governments, justice institutions, the church, and even their leaders. Credibility is built over the course of time. It can take years to build it up, but we can lose it in a minute. To attain it, we must inspire confidence to others, making a difference, pleasing God, and doing everything with faith. God has called us to be a light on earth. Let’s be a testimony for the world that surrounds us. Let’s light this world with no reservations. Let’s add

savor to life being like the salt that God wants us to be. Credibility is the foundation of true leadership. Anyone who wants to influence others must be trustworthy, i.e. credible. Credibility will help us make a difference in a society that is in crisis due to its loss of values and principles. As Christians, we must be an alternative to this current and critical lack of credibility. To reinforce our credibility, we must always speak with facts backing our speech, therefore showing that we are all credible and trustworthy people. Apostle Paul advised other believers to distance themselves from proud and arrogant people and asked them, if they had really heard God’s voice, to leave behind their past way of living by putting off the old man and putting on the new one, revitalized by God. Through this slogan, God demands his people to act differently to others. He encourages his servants and Christian people to be sincere, united, helpful, willing, committed, submissive, guardians of the truth, determined, faithful, fair, and responsible. God has been training us, the Worldwide Missionary Movement (WMM), for these times to live the same Gospel that we preach and to transform people in servants and administrators led by Christ. We must keep

walking on our path of light, living honestly each moment of our lives. Remember that credibility comes from a heart open to God. People do not need us to be perfect, but honest, and if we are, we will have both the support of God and the people. Our faith must shine in everything we do. Our lives must reflect that God leads us and that His transforming influence had an impact on us. All of us have a great responsibility: to make believe those around us in the message of Jesus-Christ with our lifestyle. Let’s be a testimony for the world, so that others can believe through us by witnessing the results of the power we believe in. Do not be an obstacle for potential believers. Attract others to the path of the Lord. To perform an effective ministry after the call, we must follow certain biblical values and strengthen a solid vocation of service, so that it may guide us reliably and safely, as the Word of God has done over the course of time. Habits and customs may change, but His Word, principles and values have never changed and will never do. May God help us this year to inspire credibility to those around us. This is an earnest call for the whole family of the Worldwide Missionary Movement (WMM). We need men and women with values and principles, committed and involved in the Work of God despite this context of incredulity we live in nowadays. Be instruments of light and hope so that others may believe in God and His Gospel. Let’s fulfill this duty and let’s honor the name of the Lord, His Gospel and His Work. May this year bring many victories!

january 2018 / Impacto evangelistic

César Vidal Manzanares, Spanish journalist and writer, is a prestigious historian who devoted most of his life to study subjects related to Christianity worldwide. He explains in detail the importance of the Reformation, which celebrated its 500th anniversary in 2017, as well as the current value of the Christian Church in the world. Steven López (*)

César Vidal Manzanares, Christian Protestant, is also known for his work as a historian and writer, as well as for his collaborations with various media. Doctor of History and holder of the National Award for Excellence in Academic Performance by UNED (Spain), Doctor of Theology and Philosophy by Logos University, and Bachelor of Law by Universidad Complutense de Madrid, he has been professor at many universities throughout Europe and America. He has also been awarded various prizes. What events triggered the Reformation? Just by reading the testimony of the catholic cardinal Newman on the events of the 4th century when he made a list of various pagan practices that contaminated Christianity during the period of Emperor Constantine, we can figure out how the situation was back then, and this only worsened progressively throughout the Middle Ages. We must mention that before Luther, there were humanists that laughed out loud many of the catholic dogmas, such as Erasmus of Rotterdam, who pointed out that it was ridiculous, or Dante Alighieri, who did not doubt to represent popes in hell in his works since he knew what they usually did in secret. Therefore, the corruption of this instiMISSIONARY MOVEMENT 18 WORLDWIDE America • Europe • Oceanía • África • Asia

“THE BIBLE WAS KIDNAPPED FOR

A MILLENNIUM”

interview

tution and the paganism that lasted for over a millennium triggered the protests in favor of a reformation of the Church as people grew tired of injustices. In the beginning, how was the impact of the Reformation internationally? Luther found a devastated church. For this reason, he got surprised of the reach of his actions in other parts of Europe

after nailing his 95 theses on the door of Wittenberg Castle church. Factors such as the New Testament being written in its original language (Greek) only boosted its impact. What revolution caused the Reformation? The Reformation immediately caused a spiritual revolution. Its claims were

timely. The first one was to return the Bible to the people. The Bible remained kidnapped for more than a millennium. People who wanted to study the Holy Book had no translations available and the Reformation claimed to make it available to the people, as well as making it the only rule of faith and conduct. The second claim was to return Christ to the people since, throughout centuries, a legion of saints and virgins had been formed to take the place of Christ in the hearts of people. The third claim aimed to return the Gospel of grace to the people. We can earn the right to be saved and we can achieve salvation. What happened after these three claims of the Reformation? The Reformation went beyond the spiritual domain and reached the most diverse groups of society. Many Catholics criticize that Martin Luther divided the Church with the Reformation. How truth is this theory? The Catholic Apologetics is usually very poor. Besides its arrogance and harshness, it lacks in substance, being poor and feeble. It is shameful to make such a declaration. For any person who knows History, what Luther did with his 95 theses was a deed of great spiritual freedom. Many communities became free from the Roman chains, but this also happened long before the Reformation. It cannot be stated that there was a happy union led by the Roman pope, because it would be a lie. An obvious example of this can be found in Eastern Europe with the Czech brothers, a community that had a completely evangelical initiative long before the Reformation. They later joined Luther, among other countries. How many reformations experienced Christianity? There were various reformation movements. We speak about the Reformation in a general sense only from the 16th century, though there is no doubt that there were different groups. Zwingliâ€™s reformations belong to the classical subdivisions which are often referred to as the Magisterial Reformation of the great

january 2018 / Impacto evangelistic

masters, such as Luther, Zwingli, and Calvin, and then we have the said Radical Reformation, which corresponds to the Anabaptists and others. Is there one key character or various characters that represent the Reformation? We talk about various characters, MISSIONARY MOVEMENT 20 WORLDWIDE America • Europe • Oceanía • África • Asia

even if we acknowledge the major role of characters such as Luther or Zwingli. For instance, the influence of Luther in Spain is almost non-existent. The same happened in England with William Tyndale and other reformers who were not related to Luther at all. What is the difference between the

terms “reformed”, used in Europe, and “evangelical”, used in America? There are differences. When we use “reformed” in Europe, we refer to the churches with a Calvinist theology, though I think it is wrong. Despite Calvinism being completely attributed to the Reformation, this is very inaccurate.

interview

There were various movements that contributed to the Reformation, and thanks to them, many other movements exist nowadays. How did the Reformation influence the United States and Europe? It had an extraordinary influence that went even beyond the spiritual domain.

Its message of freedom does not only entail returning freedom of conscience to the people, returning the Bible, and freeing it from the spiritual chains of the Middle Ages, but also a boost to education. For this reason, the first compulsory and free school in history was created in the Protestant Geneva on May 1536. Freedom also manifested in the Scientific Revolution, an event that occurred thanks to the Reformation and that is acknowledged by historians of science. For instance, we have Isaac Newton, a brilliant scientist who was also a fervent believer. From 1901 to 1991, 86 % of Nobel Prizes of science were Protestants or Jews who were educated in Protestant countries, and from that amount, 64 % were Protestants. Therefore, when someone says that science is in dispute with the belief in Godâ€™s existence, he or she is either ignorant or very evil. What has happened to the Reformation in Europe? Is there a crisis of faith? The most important spiritual expansion is currently taking place in China, where various evangelical missionaries performed a great work before the revolution. What has happened in Europe? Well, something very simple that I sometimes define with the following sen-

tence: â€œGod has children, but no grandchildren.â€? This means that if we do not have a way to transmit our knowledge to the future generations, our testimony will disappear in one or two generations. What is your view on the current situation of Christianity worldwide? There is an offensive of the State against us, so we must learn how to react to these aggressions, such as gender ideology. Some countries forbid the preaching of the Word of God. We must face these problems, and we know how since Christianity has managed to change history in different ways. Some forms of abuse does not exist anymore thanks to Christianity. This means that Christ is near, but it does not mean that we can just sit back and do nothing, that is just irresponsible. We must go and tackle the problems. What reformations the churches currently need? Churches must reform every day. The Bible must return to the center of our spiritual lives. The Bible has been losing relevance in many churches to the point of being substituted by other matters. Christ must be the role model of the Church. Neither a pastor nor a preacher nor a leader; just Christ. The Gospel of grace must be preached.

january 2018 / Impacto evangelistic

NEAR 10% of adult population suffers from this disease, which causes deep wounds. Ulcer is not caused by spicy food or stress. A type of bacteria known as helicobacter pylori is generally the one to blame.

Walter Menchola Vásquez (*)

When an ulcer occurs in the stomach, the disease is known as a gastric ulcer, and if it affects the first part of the small intestine, the duodenum, is known as duodenal ulcer, being the latter the most common. It is called like that as it causes an erosive injury in the stomach mucosa or that of the duodenum, besides swelling up the area. It evolves and appears in different ways. Some years ago, peptic ulcer was originally associated to people’s life styles (tense people with great stress and prone personalities) and diets. Nowadays, it is known that the most common causes of this illness are the bacterium known as helicobacyer pylori and anti-inflammatory medicine. Helicobacter pylori is present in more than 90% of the cases. This bacterium enters our organism mainly because we eat contaminated food or drink water that has not been properly treated. The microorganism sticks to the stomach or duodenal walls and reduces its capacity to resist gastric acids; then, it damages the mucosa generating the subsequent clinical effects. This bacterium is spread around the world; its predominant presence depends on the general life standard in each region. In the world, more than half MISSIONARY MOVEMENT 22 WORLDWIDE America • Europe • Oceanía • África • Asia

BE CAREFUL

WITH ULCER of the population is infected by helicobacter pylori, but only 5% to 20% suffers from peptic ulcer; in developing countries, 70% of children gets infected before turning 10 years old, and 90% before 50. On the contrary, in developed countries, this bacterium is present in only 20% of the population. People get infected orally: by food, contaminated water, from person to person or by fecal-oral route. Only 15% of infected people develops peptic ulcer;

the reasons are still unknown. On the contrary, 90% of duodenal ulcer cases relate to the presence of the helicobacter pylori and, when it comes to gastric ulcer, 60% of the cases. In addition, the way this bacterium causes peptic ulcer is not clear yet. The clinical profile shows abdominal pain as its main symptom. Although it is highly common in abdomen-related clinical profiles, its presentation is quite peculiar in typical cases, as it locates in

health

the middle of the upper quadrant. The pain is described as a burn or a cut (“it burns, it smarts”). It was also defined as a painful sensation like being hungry from 90 minutes to 3 hours before meals, which is relieved after eating. In some occasions, the patient wakes up during the night from midnight to 3 a.m. because of this pain. The intensity of this pain changes; sometimes it can be mild and other times, highly intense, and forces the patient to seek immediate medical assistance. In this case, it is necessary to discard complications such as a perforated peptic ulcer. The most frequent complications of this disease are: • Gastrointestinal hemorrhage: It generally occurs in old people and it is re-

lated to the use of anti-inflammatory drugs. It usually causes the vomiting of blood, stools with a color similar to pitch, general malaise, low arterial pressure, palpitations, lost of breath and a sensation of death. The patient must go to the nearest emergency center immediately; it is recommended to be accompanied during the transportation, as the situation can worsen at any time. • Perforation of the stomach or the duodenum: It is the second most frequent complication. It also occurs in old people due to the use of anti-inflammatory drugs. This perforation implies that the ulcer injury has surpassed the stomach’s or duodenum’s wall and has reached adjacent organs such as pancreas, which leads to a more serious complication. Preferentially, the upper GI endoscopy is used to diagnose this illness; a tube is placed through the mouth to visualize the injury directly, take samples and even some tissue to perform a biopsy. Radiology studies with barium are also conducted, although it has obvious limitations. In the treatment, a set of medications is frequently used, as each of them have different effects. It is recommended that the patient understands the importance of discipline during the treatment in or-

der to reach a successful result. The eradication of helicobacter pylori is difficult, as it has not been proved that only one medication can achieve it. Better results are obtained with treatments using different antibiotics during 14 days. Amoxicillin, metronidazole, tetracycline, clarithromycin and bismuth compounds; recurrence is common. The goal of the medical treatment is to relieve the symptoms, favor the cicatrization of the ulcer, avoid a recurrence and complications and, finally, to eradicate the helicobacter pylori. The selected treatment for the perforated peptic ulcer is surgery. In the case of the upper GI hemorrhage, the treatment must first be medical and immediate; it is necessary a permanent monitoring of the vital functions of the patient at a critical care unit if possible, especially when there is a serious hemorrhage, or the patient is old. All the patients need a upper GI endoscopy; it must be performed as a priority even if there is active gastrointestinal bleeding; depending on the intensity, the patient might require blood or blood components transfusion, or urgent surgery. (*) Internist, Master in Public Policy and Management. Source: Harrison’s Principles of Internal Medicine. 19th edition. Mayo Clinic Gastroenterology and Hepatology Board Review, 2015.

january 2018 / Impacto evangelistic

This BOOK was written by the American theologist Charles Stanley, founder and president of “In Touch Ministries” and broadcaster of “In Touch” television and radio program. Its main objective is to help believers enjoy a close relationship with the Creator, as well as to encourage them to think about their spiritual lives. Sin goes deeper than merely an association with some distant relative. Sin has contaminated our very nature. Man is born with an inclination toward evil, a bias away from good. If you don’t believe me, ask any preschool worker or kindergarten teacher. Children never need a lesson in being bad. It comes naturally. Granted, some are worse than others. But each child in his or her own way eventually demonstrates a defiant selfcenteredness willing to challenge any and all authority. The combination of our inherent sinfulness and our ensuing acts of sin puts us in bad standing with God. The book “Eternal Safety”, published in 1990 by the evangelist Charles Stanley, was written with the hope that all believers enjoy a close relationship with the Creator, a right that was paid in full by Jesus-Christ. Therefore, the renowned American preacher, Doctor Stanley, tells in the introduction of his book that there is neither fear nor worries in this relationship. In our culture we do not usually think of putting a seal on people. Therefore, it is a bit difficult to imagine the significance of being sealed by God. Fortunately, we have an illustration in Scripture that clarifies this matter for us. During the Tribulation, God will place a seal on 144,000 Jews. The seal is apparently some sort of visible mark on the forehead. As the Tribulation progresses, it becomes evident that the members of MISSIONARY MOVEMENT 24 WORLDWIDE America • Europe • Oceanía • África • Asia

ETERNAL

SAFETY this group bearing God’s seal have been granted supernatural protection from the chaos surrounding them. At the end of the Tribulation period, the entire group reappears intact to welcome the King. Tireless disseminator of the Word of the Almighty, Rev. Stanley addresses the subject of grace and Christianity throughout the 23 chapters of his book. Backed by his personal experience and wide knowledge of the Holy Scriptures, he answers accurately the questions concerning salvation, heaven, sin and understanding of the eternal safety offered in the Gospel. THE MESSAGE

literature

january 2018 / Impacto evangelistic

to call it– stands independently of faith. Consequently, God does not require a constant attitude of faith in order to be saved –only an act of faith. One more illustration may be helpful. If I chose to have a tattoo put on my arm, that would involve a one-time act on my part. Yet the tattoo would remain with me indefinitely. I don’t have to maintain an attitude of fondness of tattoos to ensure that the tattoo remains on my arm. Anyone who reads “Eternal Safety” will never doubt about Pastor Stanley’s conviction stating that we are saved by faith alone. The message of his book is clear, precise and unmistakably biblical. It presents various points of interest for believers who would like to reaffirm their conviction and hope in God’s plans. Anyone who thinks that a believer’s sins carry no eternal consequences has overlooked a major area of biblical theology. Yet I frequently encounter believers who think just that. Somewhere along the way they were taught or just assumed that heaven will be the same for everybody. As long as they are in, that is the only thing that matters. Eternal security becomes nothing more than a safety net, an emergency precaution. This attitude leads to the abuses of eternal security that have driven many away from the idea altogether. And understandably so. The theologist Stanley, born in Georgia on September 25th, 1932, aims to share his evangelical knowledge and experience acquired during his life devoted to the Lord. Therefore, he hopefully asserts in the introduction of his book that “I pray that God uses this book to help you in your life and future, so that you can confront life with the confidence that comes from knowing that our safety is eternal.” HUMANKIND

The kingdom of God will not be the same for all believers. Let me put it another way. Some believers will have rewards for their earthly faithfulness. Others will not. Some will reign with MISSIONARY MOVEMENT 26 WORLDWIDE America • Europe • Oceanía • África • Asia

Christ. Others will not. Some will be rich in the kingdom of God. Others will be poor. Some will be given true riches. Others will not. Some will be given heavenly treasures of their own. Others will not. Some will reign and rule with Christ; others will not. A careful study of these passages reveals one common denominator. Privilege in the kingdom of God is determined by one’s faithfulness in this life. “Eternal safety” is a book based on the Bible that shows that the destiny of

Faith is simply the way we say yes to God’s free gift of eternal life. Faith and salvation are not one and the same anymore than a gift and the hand that receives it are the same. Salvation or justification or adoption –whatever you wish to call it– stands independently of faith. Consequently, God does not require a constant attitude of faith in order to be saved –only an act of faith

humankind lies in the hands of a heavenly Father that loves unconditionally His children. Similarly, he states that we can only hope to measure accurately the Creator’s unconditional love, and that every man and woman will be judged by their deeds, whether they are good or bad, in the Last Judgement. Every teacher knows that to make a warning effective, there must be an “or else.” A student must know the consequences of ignoring the demands of his or her superior if a warning is to be taken seriously. The author of Hebrews states his “or else” in the form of a comparison. He compares the consequences of ignoring “the word spoken through angels” to the consequences of ignoring

literature

the message of Christ Himself. To paraphrase, “If you think it was bad for those who ignored God’s message when it was communicated through angels, imagine how it is going to be for men and women who ignore a message that comes directly from His Son!” Charles Stanley, who had always lived in a Pentecostalist context, wrote more than fifty evangelical books that were best-sellers. He offers the Christian community the possibility of learning about a longstanding topic with

The kingdom of God will not be the same for all believers. Let me put it another way. Some believers will have rewards for their earthly faithfulness. Others will not. Some will reign with Christ. Others will not. Some will be rich in the kingdom of God. Others will be poor.

his books. His work makes available for anyone who believes in God his answers to a series of questions related to eternal safety. The ancient Hebrews viewed God as a great Record Keeper. They pictured Him having in His possession a book with a list of all living people. Whether they believed it was a literal book or not is beside the point. They referred to this book in their literature in the same way the New Testament authors refer to the Book of Life. Anyone who has read much of the Old Testament knows that names and genealogies were very important to the Jews, who took this type of record keeping very seriously. That is why such references are scattered throughout the Old Testament.

january 2018 / Impacto evangelistic

Hymn composed by Kenneth Morris and interpreted by Sallie Martin. Each verse transmits a solid certainty to the believers about the real and constant presence of the Lord.

Canticle frequently sang to find peace and strength in situations of hesitation and adversity, the hymn entitled “My God is Real” is one of the songs that has comforted the most the hearts of Christ followers. Written and musicalized by the arranger and composer Kenneth Morris and interpreted by the singer Sallie Martin, this praise is appreciated by the evangelic community due to the depth of its message. My God is real 1 There are some things I may not know There are some places I can’t go But I am sure of this one thing My God is real, for I can feel Him in my soul CHORUS My God is real, real in my soul My God is real, for He has washed and made me whole His love for me is like pure gold My God is real, for I can feel Him in my soul 2 I cannot tell just how I felt When Jesus washed my sin all away Oh, but since that day and since that very hour My God has been real, for I can feel His saving power. 3 Some folks may doubt, some folks may scorn Well, they can all go on, just leave me alone But as for me, I’ll take God’s part My God is real, for I can feel Him in my heart.

MISSIONARY MOVEMENT 28 WORLDWIDE America • Europe • Oceanía • África • Asia

music

MY GOD

IS REAL Born on August 28, 1917, in the city of New York, Kenneth Morris showed interest in music at a very early age. After finishing his educational stage at the Music School of Manhattan, he created a jazz band. However, after some time, his love for God led him to use his amazing talent in favor of the Lord’s Work. Since then, after moving to Chicago, he became the best exponent of Christian music. In 1940, after working for four years as an arranger with the author Lillian M. Bowles, he associated with the singer Sallie Martin to create Martin and Morris Music Company. Author of over 300 songs, among which “God is Real” stands out, Martin and he joined Bowles and the composers Thomas A. Dorsey, Theodore Frye and Roberta Martin in order to turn Chicago into the main factory of evangelistic music. The musician passed away on February 1, 1989. As for Sallie Martin, one of the most well-known Christian singers of the 20th century, who was born on November 20, 1896, in the USA city of Pittsfield, she played an important role in the popularization of congregational singing. Her life, since she decided to devote herself to the Highest, was completely dedicated to share the good news through music. Likewise, in 1930, she helped found the National Convention

of Gospel Choirs and Choruses. With great conviction, she knew clearly what happened when she was on stage. “I do not sing, the Lord uses my voice”, she repeated with such certainty. With fervent faith, solidarity and a remarkable vision for business, Martin granted scholarships to young singers and contributed to the mission in Nigeria through issues related to health; she has caused great impact on the new minister generations of Christian singing. She passed away on June 18, 1988. The hymn entitled “My God is Real” was launched in 1944. Right away, it reached all the congregations back then. Its relevance was such that the choruses of the churches did not need scores or the lyrics to sing it. Its main message reminds us that, in spite of the adverse circumstances and problems believers may face, God complies with His promise of accompanying His children until the end of times. With a simple language but with an undeniable spiritual value, “My God is Real” encourages Christians not to let themselves be dragged by currents opposite to faith and asks them to stand steady on the rock of salvation, which is Christ. With the certainty of someone who enjoys a relationship with the Almighty, believers of the Creator can live with confidence and walk being sure the Lord’s existence is authentic.

january 2018 / Impacto evangelistic

The Scottish preacher, William Milne, performed a great work in Asia in the 19th century. Even though he only lived for 37 years, this servant of the Lord translated the New Testament to the Chinese language and preacher the Word with abnegation. Robert Philip

William Milne holds a preeminent place in the history of evangelical missions despite dying at the age of 37. While Robert Moffat revolutionized South Africa preaching the good news, Milne spread the Word all over China through his texts, fundamentally with his admirable translation of the Bible into Chinese together with Robert Morrison, his friend of faith. Milne was the second Protestant missionary sent to China by the London Missionary Society. He traveled across various Asian cities sowing the seeds of Christianity. He saved hundreds of souls in Malacca, a city that became an evangelical settlement thanks to his passionate preaching of the Almighty’s message. He also became the first principal of the Anglo-Chinese school and main publisher of two missionary magazines. THE BEGINNING

William Milne was born in April 1785, in the village of Kennethmont, county of Aberdeenshire (Scotland). After the death of his father when he was 6, her mother took care of his education. The single child started to work to help with the household expenses. He learned the jobs of farmer and carpenter, and he was taught in the local church. Despite his restless character, he was always interested in spiritual subject. William showed an exceptional interest in Christian literature during his first steps learning the Gospel. When MISSIONARY MOVEMENT 30 WORLDWIDE America • Europe • Oceanía • África • Asia

In 1819, William Milne lost his wife, but this event only strengthened his faith in God and renewed his commitment with the missionary work. He kept on working hard in favor of Christianity while raising his children, until his departure to meet the Lord in June 2nd, 1822.

he turned 13, he started to go to the Sunday school and got familiar with the work of renowned religious authors, such as John Willison. His fondness for reading Christian tracts and books, as well as the example of pious men, influenced him to commit with the Gospel and Jesus-Christ. When Milne was 16, in 1801, he experienced his first encounter with

A MISSIONARY

IN CHINA

hero of faith

the Lord. He understood while meditating in a sermon that the grace of God could free him from the eternal wrath that awaits those who refuse to accept Christ’s sacrifice. He prayed and asked for forgiveness. Then finally, he was reborn. He started to attend shortly after another congregation that was more evangelical-wise and very focused on missions. In 1804, he became a member of a congregational church led by Pastor George Cowie in Huntly city. One of the sermons of this servant of God based on Apocalypse 22:21 reinforced Milne’s decision of becoming a loyal follower of Jesus. The renovating action of the Holy Spirit started to be more and more evident. He stopped being restless to become a servant with a kinder character, devoted to praying. THE TRAINING

He was an avid reader. When he learnt about the book “Life and diary of David Brainerd” and his author, the American theologist and missionary Jonathan Edwards, and how he brought the Gospel to the natives of Delaware, Milne felt compelled to follow his steps. After praying and talking about it with friends, he submitted his application to the London Missionary Society, but got rejected. Convinced that this was the path chosen by God for him, Milne did not give up and applied again to at least be able to cut their wood. His perseverance bore fruit in 1809, when he was 24. He was admitted and he was sent to train at Gosport Academy, an institution that prepared missionaries that was led by the renowned preacher David Bogue. Milne received in this training center theological as well as language les-

january 2018 / Impacto evangelistic

sons. He had to learn rhetoric, English philosophy, History, and Geography. According to the guidelines established by Bogue for this center of the London Missionary Society, Milne learnt to be patient and submissive when dealing with disappointment, to persevere in moments of discouragement, and be ready to face suffering or even death. Milne engraved all these lessons deep in his heart. He also treasured other key lessons related to the introduction of the Word to a new environment. He enthused with the tradition of Bible and other Christian scriptures,

CONVINCED that this was the path chosen by God for him, Milne did not give up and applied again to at least be able to cut their wood. His perseverance bore fruit in 1809, when he was 24. He was admitted and he was sent to train at Gosport Academy, an institution that prepared missionaries that was led by the renowned preacher David Bogue.

as well as with the idea of establishing a school system where kids could be trained in all the domains of knowledge and especially in Christian faith. THE MISSIONARY

Three years and ten months after his training, Milne concluded his studies on July 1812. On that year, August 4th, he got married with Rachel Cowie, the daughter of the Pastor of his church. A month later, he started his first missionary travel. His destination was the city of Macao. Milne used the time of the travel to study the Scriptures and the Chinese language. He also evangelized the passengers and the ship’s crew. He arrived to Macao in July 4th, MISSIONARY MOVEMENT 32 WORLDWIDE America • Europe • Oceanía • África • Asia

hero of faith

1813, and he was welcomed by Robert Morrison. He was the first servant sent to China by the London Missionary Society and he immediately saw in Milne the partner he was waiting for so long. Excited by the work he had to do, William started his evangelizing labor, but he soon realized that things would be so easy. Macao’s governor, pressured by the catholic clergy, ordered their expulsion. Far from getting discouraged, the servant held his ground and conviction that the Lord had brought him to Asia to fulfill a great purpose. He then

When Milne was 16, in 1801, he experienced his first encounter with the Lord. He understood while meditating in a sermon that the grace of God could free him from the eternal wrath that awaits those who refuse to accept Christ’s sacrifice. He prayed and asked for forgiveness. Then finally, he was reborn.

decided to sail to Canton, in southern China. Once there, Milne preached the Word and overcame big obstacles and fierce opposition. After traveling through different places, he arrived to Malacca, a city which would later become his headquarter and a place of rest for other missionaries. THE MINISTRY

The missionary labor is never free from danger, and in the case of Milne and Morrison, they had to overcome a series of difficulties. As hostilities increased in Macao and Canton, they decided to settle in Malacca, which was at the time a British colony. From this zone, which currently is part of Malaysia, Milne planned that the Word would spread among Southeastern people, reaching

Chinese territory. He opened the Anglo-Chinese school in 1818 and became its principal. He taught there Geography and English. Convinced that literature could also be a powerful instrument for evangelism, Milne wrote in Chinese “Life of Christ,” an evangelical tract of 71 pages which had a high impact among Christ’s followers. He counted with the support of the citizen Liang Fa, whom he usually preached the Gospel and who finally became a believer. After years following his mentor’s example, Liang Fa became the first Chinese missionary. He worked distributing the translations of the Bible in different regions, as well as “The Two Friends,” a celebrated tract of his Scottish master published in 1819, which was the most used publication until the beginning of the 20th century. Milne was a prolific writer who published more than 21 works in Chinese and 3 in English, as well as translated 13 books of the Ancient Testament. In 1819, William Milne lost his wife, but this event only strengthened his faith in God and renewed his commitment with the missionary work. He kept on working hard in favor of Christianity while raising his children, until his departure to meet the Lord in June 2nd, 1822. After his death and as tribute to his contributions, such as the translation of the Bible into Chinese, his numerous publications, and his work in Malacca, the University of Glasgow granted him the degree of Doctor of Divinity. His example keeps on inspiring us, defying new generations of believers and anyone willing to assume the words of Apostle Paul: “Yea, woe is unto me, if I preach not the Gospel!”

january 2018 / Impacto evangelistic

AFTER all the suffering at home, she only yearned for one thing: to be a nun. She took that decision given the constant problems with her parents, but she later learned about the true path of God and her life took a radical turn.

Susan Amau Photo: Archivo Familiar

Martha Noguera Zeledón grew up in the small neighborhood of Villa Libertad, in Managua, capital city of Nicaragua. She was raised in a healthy environment. Her grand-parents, of catholic background, taught her about loyalty to God and to participate in certain religious ceremonies during her childhood. Enrique Noguera, her father and refrigeration technician, was a hardworking man that ran his own small business at home and was devoted to his family. Alejandra Zeledón, her mother, gave birth to a second child and devoted herself to her family. Everything seemed going well over the years, except for her father’s alcohol consumption. Little by little, Enrique became more negligent with his family. He stopped fulfilling his work due to alcohol and started to bring strangers to his house, until he lost his hard earned work and went bankrupt. Martha was 9 years old when she had to face the harsh reality. Poverty tackled their home. Their situation was unsustainable with three siblings and not much to eat. Nicaragua’s difficult context at that time, with a severe economic crisis, forced the father to look for new horizons, then distancing from his family. Therefore, he departed abroad with his oldest son, but the situation did not improve. Problems did not only persist, but increased. The father, increasingly more addicted to alcohol, neglected his son, WORLDWIDE MISSIONARY MISIONERO MOVEMENT MUNDIAL 34 MOVIMIENTO America • Europa América Europe • Oceanía • África • Asia

MARTHA’S NEW PATH

life story

january Enero 2018 2018/ /Impacto ImpactoevangelĂstico evangelistic

who ended up as lost as him but not just with alcohol, but drugs. There was money and food shortage in the family. Alejandra, mother of Martha, had to go out and look for daily nourishment. She started to work trading clothes from Guatemala with the economic help of her sister, who lived in the United States. UNRESTRAINED VIOLENCE

Her travels only caused her problems. Her brother-in-law kept a close eye on her and created discord with unfounded rumors. Enrique, who was a very jealous man, returned to his country after two MISSIONARY MOVEMENT 36 WORLDWIDE America • Europe • Oceanía • África • Asia

years and the marriage became unbearable. Violence turned from verbal to physical. Little Martha lived in fear all the time, wondering what would be of her family. It was almost impossible for her to concentrate on her studies. Her only distraction was attending the Catholic mass with her grand-mother and participating in every event possible to stay far from home. Alcohol had took over Enrique. A simple claim was enough for him to give a brutal beating to his wife on plain street. The incident ended up in the police station. The violent scene was engraved in Martha’s mind. From then on, she started

to feel a great hatred towards his father. The family became astray after they divorced. The mother had to work very hard to maintain her four children. They never heard of the father again. With hard work and the support of her children, the family opened a stand in the market. Everything seemed to go well, but the few savings they had left were robbed. Their situation just went uphill again. The stress for school expenses, food, and other household matters, made the mother fall sick. Money was insufficient and the older brother had to leave the school of nuns they were attending. This

life story

meant the total loss of the adolescent. The younger children had neither proper care nor control. UNEXPECTED TRAVEL

Alejandra had no other option than traveling to the United States. It would be a difficult journey full of obstacles, but as she had no documents, she tried to enter illegally into American territory, crossing the border desert. The Immigration Police stopped her and returned her to Mexico. She was helped by a Christian family in Mexico, and since she had already chosen Christianity before her travel to the

january 2018 / Impacto evangelistic

United States, this support only increased her faith in the neighbor. Nonetheless, the situation was different in Nicaragua. Martha, only 14, took charge of her family and her siblings. Despite the lack of money, she gathered courage and fought to move forward. Unfortunately, the situation worsened since their house was foreclosed and they were finally evicted. The children were sheltered by their uncles and grand-parents, who protecMISSIONARY MOVEMENT 38 WORLDWIDE America • Europe • Oceanía • África • Asia

ted them and gave them food. A neighbor who knew the situation of the family was moved by Martha’s situation and did not doubt to help her. She provided more spiritual rather than material support. She told her about the Gospel and the salvation that comes from following Christ’s path. Martha listened to her without paying much attention. She did not reject her for respect, but she had other plans in mind. She believed in Catholicism and

wanted to be a nun because she thought that marriage could bring her the same misfortune as her parents. Therefore, she decided to take the veil as soon as she could. PATH TO BECOME A NUN

After taking care of her siblings and working all what she could, Martha devoted to Catholicism. She presented herself to Mother Teresa, a nun of a nearby chapel, whom she told her intention to take the

life story

ped her siblings, but she felt an uneasy emptiness. Her persistent neighbor invited her again to an evangelical retreat and this time, after having heard her talked so much about God, Martha agreed. On the defensive and without letting her be manipulated, so she thought, she listened the message of Salvation. The first day of the retreat, they talked everything about Catholicism and its false doctrine, as if the preachers knew that she would be there. The second day, she listened the most sublime love message that touched her heart so deeply that she cried her pain out like a child. SALVATION HAS COME

veil. She started to prepare her in a chapel of the neighborhood. She attended the meetings every weekend looking for tranquility. It was the only place where she could not think about her problems and seek refuge. Their family situation was still worrisome, though, so she could not attend anymore the chapel. She distanced from the regular Catholic practice. She had to work full-time to support her family, and so she did for many years until she could

save some money to follow her university studies. Despite her scarce spare time, she never stopped thinking in Catholicism. Whenever she could, she attended the events at the church, went to jails, made charitable works with the other nuns and supported the community. Having overcome the harsh times of her family crisis when her parents left home, she felt that something was missing in her heart. She worked hard, hel-

So her inner struggle to go to the altar and receive the Lord or continue with her Catholic beliefs began. Doubts invaded her mind, but something she could not deny was that it was increasingly beautiful to hear the divine Word. On the last day of the retreat, there was a last call to the altar. Martha was the last one to go. She was crying and made a prayer of faith. She devoted herself to Christ that day. She finally cut her ties with the Catholic Church. She left behind her crucifix, the worships to saints, the holy water, the prayers and the veil. She never attended another Catholic event. She devoted to the Lord in the Christian Church, and despite the difficult situation she still had to face later on, she never got astray of the Lordâ€™s path. She was baptized in the waters in December 8th, 2009, and she decided to travel to Spain in 2010 to look for a better economic situation, since she wanted to look for her mother, who was sick in the United States. She stopped congregating for two years in Spain, but after a strong allergy that hospitalized her, she decided to return to Godâ€™s path. Martha currently congregates in a church of the WMM in Terrassa, Spain. She managed to see her mother after 18 years. God restored her heart and she even forgave her father. Now, she thanks the Lord every morning for having the joy of serving only Him.

january 2018 / Impacto evangelistic

“For which cause we faint not; but though our outward man perish, yet the inward man is renewed day by day.” 2 Corinthians 4:16.

Rev. Luis M. Ortiz

Nowadays, people think about new stuff all the time: new clothes, new furniture, new shoes, etc. And blinded by new things, some people mistakenly believe that true Christ followers are old fashioned, ridiculous people with awful taste. However, the truth is different: we Christians are people filled with new things, as our bodies and our inward men are renewed day by day (2 Corinthians 4:16). Because of sins, the man’s perception of God was distorted. The man is dead due to felonies and sins; he needs a new beginning, a new creation, a new birth ( John 3:3). In this new birth, we are born as children of God through the Holy Spirit. If the creation of the first man was the master piece of the creation, the regeneration or the new creature is the master piece of eternity. The multiform wisdom of God is spread throughout the universe through reborn people. Any man who “is in Christ becomes a new creature; old things passed away; behold, all things became new” (2 Corinthians 5:17). This new creature possesses a new heart. Christ said, “…for from within, out of the heart of men, proceed evil thoughts, adulteries, fornications, murders, thefts, covetousness, wickedness, deceit, lasciviousness, an evil eye, blasphemy, pride, foolishness (Mark 7:2122). Taking this into consideration, God says, “A new heart also will I give you…” (Ezekiel 36:26). In addition to a new heart, a new mind is also given to us. The mind has such a great and determining power in our lives, that God’s Word states, “for as he thinketh in his heart, so is he” MISSIONARY MOVEMENT 40 WORLDWIDE America • Europe • Oceanía • África • Asia

NEW YEAR,

NEW LIFE (Proverbs 23:7). Therefore, a new mind allows us to think about things that are true, things that are honest, things that are of good report; things that are virtuo-

so (Philippians 4:8). And as an essential complement of this new creature, a renewed body is also given to us. The body of a man without

devotional

Christ is easily managed by the soul’s passions. Body members are instruments of iniquity; the boss is the human spirit controlled by a sinful soul, the body is the slave, the sinful soul shows its wickedness through the body. “Now the works of the flesh are manifest, which are these; Adultery, fornication, uncleanness… among other similar things” (Galatians 5:1921). It is necessary to receive a renewed body. “But if the Spirit of him that raised

up Jesus from the dead dwell in you, he… shall also quicken your mortal bodies by his Spirit that dwelleth in you” (Romans 8:11). And with this renewed body, our members are presented to God as justice instruments consecrated to Him. This new creature, with a new heart, a new mind and a new body, is not disconnected or isolated from the Lord; he receives a new life from Him every day. The new creature will have new stren-

gth. A man without Christ is victim of the devil; he is weak, with not enough moral or spiritual strength to resist the devil. This new creature can comply with the first and greatest commandment that states, “And thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind, and with all thy strength” (Mark 12:30; Deuteronomy 6:5). The new creature is ruled by the greatness of love. The world is filled with violence, hate and wars. Where do those things come from? From greed, selfishness; this two human passions rule relationships among men and women ( James 4:1-2). But now, this new creature is ruled by the greatness of love. “A new commandment I give unto you, that ye love one another” and “love your enemies” ( John 13:34; Matthew 5:44). “Everyone that loveth is born of God, and knoweth God. He that loveth not knoweth not God; for God is love” (1 John 4:7-8). And this new creature will have a new name. “And thou shalt be called by a new name…” (Isaiah 62:2); “I will give him a white stone, and in the stone a new name written, which no man knoweth saving he that receiveth it” (Revelation 2:17). The final dwelling of the lost souls is described in the Scriptures through awful words: darkness, fire ovens, abysses, hell, fire and brimstone. If this description seems to be terrifying, how is it in reality? However, the new creature will live in the new city of God, the New Jerusalem, which comes from God’s heaven; in a new city whose foundations are precious stones, whose doors are pearls, whose main square is made of gold and transparent glass, whose temple is the Almighty and the Lamb, whose light is God’s brightness, and the Lamb is his genius. Filthy things that lie and commit abominations will not enter there; only those who appear in the Lamb’s book of life will be able to pass; the new heavens and the new earth will be there too (Revelation 21). And as a glorious summary of all this, our God states emphatically, “Behold, I make all things new” (Revelation 21:5).

january 2018 / Impacto evangelistic

“Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in necessities, in persecutions, in distresses for Christ’s sake: for when I am weak, then am I strong.” 2 Corinthians 12:10

Rev. Gustavo Martínez

The apostle Paul, a man with experience on things related to God, shows us how to face problems. No one lives a life without problems; each of us faces them in a different way. We do not seek them, they come by themselves. We have two options: 1) we can try to ignore them or run away thinking we can avoid them; or 2) recognize them, face them, learn and grow. The second one is the best choice, because it allows us to see problems as an opportunity to learn, grow, mature and contemplate God’s glory. “And lest I should be exalted above measure through the abundance of the revelations, there was given to me a thorn in the flesh, the messenger of Satan to buffet me, lest I should be exalted above measure. For this thing I besought the Lord thrice, that it might depart from me. And he said unto me, my grace is sufficient for thee…” (2 Corinthians 12:7-9). God knows how to take care of Paul, so that pride does not harm him. I. PROBLEMS COME OFTEN TO GUIDE US Chapter 27 of Genesis states that Jacob was lost, he did not know what to do or what path to take. He tricked his father and appropriated the birthright, which generated problems for him. Then, in chapter 28, he ran away and in the middle of a horrible and lonely place, he felt anxious. That night he had a dream in which the Lord talked to him; then, he made a commitment to God. Jacob said, “If God will be with me, and will keep me in this way that I go, and will give me bread to eat, and raiment to put on, so that I come again to my father’s house in peace; then shall the Lord be my God” (verses 20-21). Problems helped him find the right path. MISSIONARY MOVEMENT 42 WORLDWIDE America • Europe • Oceanía • África • Asia

THERE IS A PURPOSE BEHIND

EACH PROBLEM

II. GOD USES PROBLEMS TO EVALUATE YOU Problems reveal what is inside us. God took Israel to the desert to test and upset its people, and see what was in their hearts. “And thou shalt remember all the way which the Lord thy God led thee these forty years in the wilderness, to humble thee, and to prove thee, to know what was in thine heart, whether thou wouldest keep his commandments, or no.” (Deuteronomy 8:2). The Bible talks about those who came from Babylon. God allowed that in order to know what was inside Hezekiah’s heart. He did not answer to the miracle God had performed, because his heart exalted. Our hearts are different before the tests, before sorrow, before problems, and after them. All of a sudden, we change and start acting differently. Why? Because we hide what is inside our hearts; however, problems, incomprehension, or unfair treatments we go through make us reveal what is really inside us. Disrespect, gossip rebellion, among other things start to show. God allows problems to occur in order to know what we are made of. III. GOD USES PROBLEMS TO CORRECT US Psalm 119:67 states, “Before I was afflicted I went astray: but now have I kept thy word”. And the verses 71 and 72 say, “It is good for me that I have been afflicted; that I might learn thy statutes. The law of thy mouth is better unto me than thousands of gold and silver”. God allows difficult situations to happen in order to correct us. There are lessons we learn without pain, but most of the lessons must be learned through it. After we

lose what we have, we realize their value. IV. GOD USES PROBLEMS TO PROTECT AND PRESERVE US In Genesis 45, we learn that God worked with Joseph since he was very young. Being sold by his siblings and facing a series of difficult situations did not change him. Joseph said to his siblings, “Now therefore be not grieved, nor angry with yourselves, that ye sold me hither: for God did send me before you to preserve life… to preserve you a posterity in the earth, and to save your lives by a great deliverance. So now it was not you that sent me hither, but God” (Genesis 45:5-8). “But as for you, ye thought evil against me; but God meant it unto good, to bring to pass, as it is this day, to save much people alive” (Genesis 50:20). God lifted him and made him Lord of Egypt. That is how God showed His power, His sovereignty, His purpose, letting us know that nothing escapes His control, that we are not an accident in this world and that we are not alone. Our sighs are not a secret for God; God knows what go through, but He won’t be there for us until we overcome the situation in which we must show we are up to Him, we must fight; and God put us in those situations to make us clean, to free us from pride, ego and vainglory. V. GOD ALLOWS US TO EXPERIMENT DIFFICULT SITUATIONS, BUT WE ARE NEITHER ABANDONED NOR DESTROYED “Then spake Jesus again unto them, saying, I am the light of the world: he that followeth me shall not walk in darkness,

devotional

but shall have the light of lifeâ€Ś Then Jesus said unto them, yet a little while is the light with you. Walk while ye have the light, lest darkness come upon you: for he that walketh in darkness knoweth not

whither he goeth. While ye have light, believe in the light, that ye may be the children of lightâ€? ( John 8:12, 12:35-36). We know there is a terrible enemy that stalks our lives; the devil creates all those

situations to confuse us and disorientate us. But the Lord is with us; while we still hold His hand, He will not abandon us and no one will take us away from Him. Amen.

january 2018 / Impacto evangelistic

“And unto the angel of the church of the Laodiceans write; these things saith the Amen, the faithful and true witness, the beginning of the creation of God; I know thy works, that thou art neither cold nor hot: I would thou wert cold or hot. So then because thou art lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I will spue thee out of my mouth. Because thou sayest, I am rich, and increased with goods, and have need of nothing; and knowest not that thou art wretched, and miserable, and poor, and blind, and naked: I counsel thee to buy of me gold tried in the fire, that thou mayest be rich; and white raiment, that thou mayest be clothed, and that the shame of thy nakedness do not appear; and anoint thine eyes with eyesalve, that thou mayest see. As many as I love, I rebuke and chasten: be zealous therefore, and repent. Behold, I stand at the door, and knock: if any man hear my voice, and open the door, I will come in to him, and will sup with him, and he with me.” Revelation 4:14-20

Rev. Rodolfo González Cruz

Laodicea was the most luxurious of the seven cities in Asia Minor. It was a great banking, commercial and financial center. In 61 AD, an earthquake devastated it, but its citizens were so reach they refused to receive any kind of help from the Roman government and they rebuilt their city using their own resources. That is why Laodiceans bragged about having collected so much wealth that they did not need anything at all. In addition, this city was the heart of clothing, which was famous for its soft and shiny black wool from the rams bred in that place. A great quantity of clothing was produced and sold at a very good price, which allowed them to have great profits. In Laodicea, there was a medicine school famous around the world for its preparation of unguent for ears and eye drops. As the city had experimented constant problems with water supply and there were natural springs with hot water near the city, its inhabitants decided to build a 10-km aqueduct. However, water temperature decreased during its way and it arrived lukewarm. MISSIONARY MOVEMENT 44 WORLDWIDE America • Europe • Oceanía • África • Asia

NEITHER COLD

NOR HOT

devotional

The real mission of the church is being an effective witness of Jesus Christ, but luxury and amenities in Laodicea unfortunately distracted it from its work. “So then because thou art lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I will spue thee out of my mouth” (verse 16). The word “lukewarm” means warm, neither cold nor

hot. This means that a “lukewarm” person losses the warmth of God’s presence, in spite of being a child of God. It is that person who seems to be upright, but he is not, he is a hypocrite. God is more tolerant with cold people who know nothing about Him than with lukewarm people that do know Him but are hypocrites, because the Lord hates pretense. That was happening with the Laodicean Church; it was half alive and half dead. This congregation was unfortunately lukewarm as it was too involved with earthly things; it was the reflection of believers who like improper fashion trends, worldly music, discos, that are liberal, ecumenical Christians who get along well with everyone, who accept any doctrine. Due to their wrong thinking, the Lord warns them, I will spue thee out of my mouth” (verse 16). This action will take place in the future, which means it has not happened yet; they are still God’s children, but they stand at the last step of spiritual descent, after which God will spew out on them, will cut them, will reject them and will turn them into children of the devil. “Because thou sayest, I am rich, and increased with goods, and have need of

nothing; and knowest not that thou art wretched, and miserable, and poor, and blind, and naked” (verse 17). This church is proud, pretends to be self-sufficient, powerful, because its wealth made it trusting, secure and satisfied. It believes to be blessed, successful and materially rich; but the truth is it is spiritually ruined, destroyed, unprotected, empty, unhappy, unfortunate and is not able to find the true path. “I counsel thee to buy of me gold tried in the fire, that thou mayest be rich; and white raiment, that thou mayest be clothed, and that the shame of thy nakedness do not appear; and anoint thine eyes with eyesalve, that thou mayest see” (verse 18). God says “I counsel thee”, because this church would not take anybody’s advice or help. Why would it have to buy if it already had it all? Because it had very little. The action of buying meant it had to pay some price to the Lord, which did not imply money or works in order to be saved, but an attitude of humiliation and consecration. In addition, He counsels it to buy “white raiment”. White raiment represents purity, cleanliness, holiness; that is the reason why wearing white clothing is needed to cover nakedness from sin and not being shamed. Finally, it says “anoint thine eyes with eyesalve”, as this church lost spiritual vision, was not able to recognize its own faults and its spiritual poverty. Eye salve represents the Word brought to life by the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 2:10,14; 2 Corinthians 4:4). In spite of the sickening situation of this church, the Lord still loves it; that is why He disciplines it and seeks its regret. God asks it to recover the holy zeal (Galatians 4:18). “Behold, I stand at the door, and knock: if any man hear my voice, and open the door, I will come in to him, and will sup with him, and he with me” (verse 20). The Lord does not want to abandon those from Laodiceans, he urges them to recover their communion and have Him in their hearts (2 Corinthians 5:20). We should not think that someone who was spiritually wrong cannot overcome that situation, because nothing is impossible for God (Luke 1:37; Pro. 29:13).

january 2018 / Impacto evangelistic

A quick report of the work that Worldwide Missionary Movement is making in America and throughout the world. The Holy Bible states: “And they, continuing daily with one accord in the temple... And the Lord added to the church daily such as should be saved”. (Acts 2:46,47).

MISSIONARY MOVEMENT 46 WORLDWIDE America • Europe • Oceanía • África • Asia

events

WITH RESPONSIBILITY, VISION AND ANOINTING WE WILL REACH ALL OUR NATION THE Worldwide Missionary Movement held its 9th National Convention with the attendance of followers from Costa Rica, Guatemala and Honduras. Pastors and delegations from Honduras, Guatemala and Costa Rica attended, from November 9 to November 12, the 9th National Convention of the Worldwide Missionary Movement in El Salvador. It took place at the Ciudad Merliot sports center under the motto “With responsibility, vision and anointing we will reach all our nation,” and it highlighted the fervor shown by God’s people. Rev. Héctor García, who is currently the presbyter of Guatemala, was the servant of God in charge of preaching during

the first two days of the activities. Pastor Arnoldo Ramírez and reverends Alex Barrios and Álvaro Garavito, Supervisor of the WMM in Central America and Mexico, also preached the Word of the Lord. At the last service of the convention, Pastor Gustavo Chay, Supervisor of the WMM in Guatemala, shared a message that touched the attendees. In addition, the new men and women chosen to spread the good news were introduced in the 9th National Convention of the WMM in El Salvador.

january 2018 / Impacto evangelistic

SEED OF GOD In the Department of Santander, the Worldwide Missionary Movement of Colombia held the 8th version of the Jezreel Camp with the participation of more than five hundred young believers. The state of Salim, located in the mountainous path of La Mesa de los Santos, one of the main tourist destinations of the department of Santander, was chosen by the WMM Colombia to carry out, from November 3 to November 6, the 8th version of the Jezreel Camp: “Seed of God”. “Kedushá”, a Hebrew word meaning sanctification, was the motto of this spiritual celebration which was attended by Rev. Aris Solís, Officer of the National Board of the WMM in Colombia, and Pastor Eduard Sán-

MISSIONARY MOVEMENT 48 WORLDWIDE America • Europe • Oceanía • África • Asia

chez, missionary in the Colombian indigenous communities from the department of Vaupés. At the beginning, the Jezreel Camp was only held for the young people of Zone 57 of the WMM in Colombia, but now it has extended its reach and brings together young Christians from different parts of Colombian territory. On this occasion, it gathered more than five hundred young followers of Jesus Christ, who received a fresh and challenging message for their lives.

events

january 2018 / Impacto evangelistic

THE DAY IS COMING, LET’S LIVE WITH RESPONSIBILITY With the presence of the main leaders of the Work of God, the Worldwide Missionary Movement in Uruguay held its 11th National Convention. The WMM in Uruguay held, from November 16 to November 19, its 11th National Convention. It was held in the central church of Montevideo under the motto “The day is coming, let’s live with responsibility.” This event was attended by Rev. Gustavo Martínez, International President of the WMM; Pastor José Soto, International Vice President; missionary Rodolfo González, International Treasurer; and Rev. Luis Meza Bocanegra, International Director. All of them encouraged the Christ’ followers not to abandon the faith they have embraced. Pastors and delegations from Paraguay, Argentina, Colombia, Peru and Chile gathered together to participate in the activity, which also served to hold a ceremony of graduation of 30 brothers and sisters of the Elim Biblical Institute. In addition, two lay workers, a licensed preacher and two servants were promoted as ordained ministers. Finally, the new Supervisor of the WMM of Uruguay, Rev. Carlos Magallanes Pereira, was introduced.

MISSIONARY MOVEMENT 50 WORLDWIDE America • Europe • Oceanía • África • Asia

events

january 2018 / Impacto evangelistic

MISSIONARY MOVEMENT 52 WORLDWIDE America • Europe • Oceanía • África • Asia

events

WE ARE THE PEOPLE OF GOD The Worldwide Missionary Movement of the United States celebrated its National Convention of Ladies and Young People in Marietta. The city of Marietta, located in the state of Georgia, was chosen by the WMM in the United States to hold, from November 22 to November 24, its National Convention of Ladies and Young People. This event, under the motto â€œWe are the people of Godâ€?, was attended by the reverends Albert Rivera and Manuel Santiago. Pastor Rivera, National Supervisor of the WMM of Puerto Rico, was in charge of preaching the Word on the first day of the activities. In the second

service, it was the turn of servant Jacqueline Rovira, General Manager of the Work of God. On the third day, the Rev. Manuel Santiago, National Officer of the WMM in the United States, shared the message of Christ to the faithful. The event finished with the preaching of Pastor Rivera and Sister Rovira. The convention was broadcasted by the media of the Work in USA.

january 2018 / Impacto evangelistic

events

HOW MANY OF US LONG FOR GOD TO ENLARGE OUR HEARTS The Worldwide Missionary Movement in the Dominican Republic held its 47th National Convention. It was a spiritual encounter that served to promote ordained ministers. The WMM in the Dominican Republic held its 47th National Convention from October 26 to October 28. It took place in the facilities of the Mahanaim Convention Center, located in the city of Pedro Brand, province of Santo Domingo. The event, whose motto was “Responsibility 2017”, had the special participation of Rev. Gustavo Martínez, International President of the God’s Work. Pastor Martínez was in charge of inaugurating the spiritual activity with a message called “How many of us long for God to enlarge our hearts,” based on Psalm 119: 30-35. The servant

MISSIONARY MOVEMENT 54 WORLDWIDE America • Europe • Oceanía • África • Asia

of God also preached in the service of the next day and so did Rev. Arturo Hernández, National Supervisor of the WMM of the United States. The 47th National Convention of the WMM in the Dominican Republic continued with a worship that was headed by Pastor Hernández, who shared the message called “How to live a victorious life.” During the closing ceremony, the Rev. Benito Green gave a divine message. In addition, new ordained ministers were introduced to the faithful.

january 2018 / Impacto evangelistic

HITHERTO HATH THE LORD HELPED US The Worldwide Missionary Movement of Ecuador celebrated the 3rd anniversary of the Guayaquil’s central temple with a special worship. On November 15, the WMM of Ecuador celebrated the 3rd anniversary of Guayaquil’a the central church. The celebration, held under the motto “Hitherto hath the Lord helped us,” was headed by Rev. Eugenio Masías, National Supervisor of the WMM in Ecuador, and gathered a large group of faithful who were nourished by the Word of God. Pastor Masías was in charge of preaching the Gospel. In his speech, based on Samuel 7: 3-12, he highlighted the three years of missionary work of Guayaquil’s the central temple. In the same way, he recalled that the Almighty continues to call believers who are willing to devote themselves to God’s Work.

MISSIONARY MOVEMENT 56 WORLDWIDE America • Europe • Oceanía • África • Asia

events

MEN WITH RESPONSIBILITY AND INTEGRITY God’s Work established in Bolivia held the 1st Fellowship of Men in the city of Oruro. Under the motto “Men with responsibility and integrity” and with the special participation of reverends José Emero and Mario Lima Vacaflor, the Worldwide Missionary Movement of Bolivia held the 1st Fellowship of Men in the city of Oruro from November 2 to November 5. Pastor Emero, representative of the WMM in Colombia, and servant Lima Vacaflor, Supervisor of the WMM in Bolivia, had the responsibility of evangelizing God’s followers during the event, which was broadcasted by the Work’s media. Both pastors spoke about the good news before the steady gaze of the faithful.

january 2018 / Impacto evangelistic

WOMEN WITH FIRM DECISIONS With a massive attendance, the WMM in Panama held its 14th Provincial Fellowship of Women in the province of Bocas de Toro. The 14th Provincial Fellowship of Women of the Work of God in Panama was held on August 24 and 25 in the province of Bocas de Toro, where a large group of Christ followers arrived from different parts of the country. The event was based on the motto “Women with firm decisions, turning to God as in the beginning.” The celebration was attended by Rev. Epifanio Asprilla, National Supervisor of the WMM in Panama; his wife Rosalba de Asprilla; the servant Ada Luz de González, President of the Ladies Committee; and Pastor Elizabeth de Guerra.

MISSIONARY MOVEMENT 58 WORLDWIDE America • Europe • Oceanía • África • Asia

events

CONQUERING WITH RESPONSIBILITY The main Church of Berlin celebrated its four years of existence by holding four services, in which the central message was focused on the family. The members of the main church of the Worldwide Missionary Movement in Berlin experienced four unforgettable days, from November 9 to November 12, to commemorate its 4th anniversary. Under the motto “Conquering with Responsibility,” this event brought together the congregations of Düsseldorf, Hamburg and Monaco. In the first service of the activity, Rev. David Vizcay, from the WMM in USA, gave a message about the evangelical family based on Psalm 16: 5-6. The next day, his sermon focused again on the Christian homes. Then, in the last two worships, the servant explained how the believers’ relationship with Christ should be.

january 2018 / Impacto evangelistic

WOMEN SHINE The cities of Busto Arsizio and Rome hosted the 11th Ladies Fellowship of the Worldwide Missionary Movement in Italy.

MISSIONARY MOVEMENT 60 WORLDWIDE America • Europe • Oceanía • África • Asia

The cities of Rome and Busto Arsizio hosted the 11th Ladies Fellowship of the Worldwide Missionary Movement in Italy, from November 3 to 5. Under the motto “Women shine,” this event brought together a great quantity of sisters who came from various congregations in the northern and southern areas of Italian territory. In Busto Arsizio, where around seven hundred people gathered together, the Word of God was preached by the sisters Norma Álava de Chávez, Lizet Arias de Lope, Jeaneth Ibarra de Echalar and Patricia Almache.

events

AND YE SHALL BE WITNESSES… UNTO THE UTTERMOST PART OF THE EARTH The Worldwide Missionary Movement in England held an evangelization campaign in the Scottish cities of Edinburgh and Glasgow. Led by Pastor Roberto Riojas, in charge of the Worldwide Missionary Movement in England, a group of twenty-five faithful moved to Scotland, on November 18, to carry out an evangelization campaign with the motto “And ye shall be witnesses… unto the uttermost part of the earth.” The activity was held in the cities of Edinburgh and Glasgow. Based on John 14: 6, Minister Riojas preached a message in which he exhorted the attendees to approach to God and stay away from evil paths. In the event, the hosts distributed brochures with biblical messages. It was also revealed that the WMM will soon open one more church in Scotland.

january 2018 / Impacto evangelistic

BE FIRM The Worldwide Missionary Movement in Salamanca commemorated its 8th anniversary with a special event attended by believers from the temples of Useras, Tarrasa, Entrevías and Ávila. On the occasion of its 8th anniversary of creation, the church of the Worldwide Missionary Movement in Salamanca a city located in the autonomous community of Castilla y León held a spiritual activity based on the motto “Be firm,” from March 6 to March 8. Those responsible for preaching God’s Word were the pastor Juan Castaño and the servant Estela Brito. In addition, the missionaries Carlos Medina, Carlos Garita and David Echalar took part in the event. The activity was also attended by believers from the temples of Useras (Madrid), Tarrasa (Barcelona), Entrevías (Madrid) and Ávila.

MISSIONARY MOVEMENT 62 WORLDWIDE America • Europe • Oceanía • África • Asia

events

EVERYTHING IS FOR HIS MERCY Lord’s Work in Komaki, Japan, celebrated another anniversary with a great spiritual party that gathered together brothers and sisters from the Hamamatsu temple. The Worldwide Missionary Movement in Japan held an anniversary campaign in the city of Komaki, a city located in Aichi prefecture, on November 19, to commemorate another year of the local church. This spiritual celebration had “Everything is for his mercy” as motto and was attended by the Rev. David Veramendi, National Supervisor of the WMM in Japan, who preached the Gospel of God. In addition, the celebration counted on the attendance of brothers and sisters from the Hamamatsu temple, the largest city in Shizuoka prefecture, and from other nearby congregations.

january 2018 / Impacto evangelistic

Other Events

FRENCH GUIANA Baptism in Cayenne The WMM of French Guiana held on October 28 a baptism ceremony in the city of Cayenne, located in the coast of the Atlantic Ocean, where five believers joined the people of God. The event of the Work was attended by Rev. José Medina Guerra, pastor of the central church, who preached Almighty’s Word to the followers. The next day, to continue with the celebration and receive the new five brothers, a special service was held for the Last Supper, which touched the hearts of Christians and strengthened their convictions.

MISSIONARY MOVEMENT 64 WORLDWIDE America • Europe • Oceanía • África • Asia

PERU

SWITZERLAND

Thanksgiving service

National Fellowship

In the midst of songs of victory and praises to God, a thanksgiving service was held on 30 November for the thirty years of evangelistic work of the WMM in the district of San Martín de Porres, Lima. Under the motto “Great things Jehovah has done,” the activity was led by Rev. Jorge Espinoza Ure, National Treasurer of the WMM in Peru, who received the multitude of believers with joy. In addition, the event was attended by Rev. Rodolfo González Cruz, International Officer of the WMM, who was the bearer of the evangelistic message. Based on Acts 10: 1-48, Pastor Gonzalez fed the attendees with the Word of the Lord.

In the city of Geneva, the financial and world center of diplomacy, the WMM in Switzerland held its 8th National Fellowship from October 27 to October 29, under the motto “The harvest is plentiful.” The activity was attended by leaders of the WMM, national and international pastors, and brothers and sisters from Europe, who took part in the celebrations. In the event of the WMM in Switzerland, God’s Word was preached by Pastors Jimmy Ramírez, who talked about the motto of the activity, and David Echalar, who shared the messages called “Project Antioquía” and “Sick people.”

EQUATORIAL GUINEA United worship in Zone 3 The WMM in Equatorial Guinea held a united worship in its Zone 3 from December 1 to 3. In this spiritual celebration, the Word of God was preached by a group of local pastors and the presbyter of the Zone 3, the servant Paulino Nguema, who evangelized Lord’s people. At the end of the activity, Rev. Benjamín Engono, leader of the WMM in Equatorial Guinea, made a special worship for the construction of the convention center of God’s Work in this African country.

events

VENEZUELA National Convention of Pastors The WMM in Venezuela held from November 8 to November 11 its 6th National Convention of Pastors in San Cristóbal, capital of Táchira state, with the motto “Forge traces for the next generation.” The event of the Work of God was attended by the reverends Humberto Henao and Rómulo Vergara, members of the International Board of Officers. The event was attended by the missionary Clemente Vergara, servant of the Lord. Likewise, the members of the National Board of the WMM in Venezuela, headed by Rev. Ricardo Manrique, leader of the Work in Venezuela, participated in the convention. The four days were full of services, missionary worships, a promotion of workers and a meeting of pastors. The 6th National Convention of Pastors of the WMM in Venezuela ended with great joy for the victory of Lord’s people to follow the plans of the Creator.

CURAÇAO

SPAIN

ARGENTINA

Seminar on Leadership

Anniversary of the Society of Men

Sunday School in Córdoba

The WMM of Curaçao gave a seminar on leadership from October 19 to 21. In this activity, Rev. Humberto Henao, International Officer of God’s Work, was responsible for training and teaching the faithful who participated in the educational days. In the practical course, in charge of Pastor Henao, topics of administration, stewardship, and biblical leadership were discussed. In addition, the faithful of the WMM in Curaçao were imbued with the great knowledge from the servant of the Lord, who also shared his wisdom about the good news and the Holy Scriptures.

The WMM in Barcelona commemorated on November 7 the 4th anniversary of its Society of Men. This activity was developed under the motto “Conquering the promises of God,” and was attended by the collaborators Juan Castillo, a servant of God from Ibiza; and Mauricio Daza, a prominent worker in the municipality of San Juan Despí, who spoke about the progress of the WMM in Spain. Brother Juan Castillo shared the Word of the Almighty through the message “True men,” based on Genesis 1: 26-27

Last October, the WMM in Córdoba gave outdoor classes through its Sunday school on Isla de los Patos, in the neighborhood of Alberdi, one of the most traditional points of the city of Córdoba. During the days of evangelization, the Word of God was imparted to the adults by Pastor Mabel Seco; while the Gospel for the young believers was preached by a group of Sunday school teachers. The result of these outdoor meetings was a large harvest of people and children who decided to dedicate their lives to the Lord after hearing the good news from the members of the WMM.

january 2018 / Impacto evangelistic

LETTERS TO US... cartas@impactoevangelistico.net

GLOBAL AGENDA 2018 JANUARY 9-16 National Convention in Colombia 26-29 National Convention in Bolivia

JULIO LÓPEZ Greetings to all who read this magazine. I never thought that God had the power to change and restore lives until I read the life stories in this magazine. I thank the Lord and this ministry for having rescued me. Brothers and sisters, keep going. God bless you all. From Florida, United States.

EVA RIVERA Beloved brothers, your magazine is edifying. I share it with a group from my church so they can also enjoy it. I have the magazines since 2014 and I keep them all as its topics must be shared. Keep improving. May God continue to bless you. From Camuy, Puerto Rico.

NELY RAMÍREZ God bless the entire Impacto Evangelistic team. This is a very important work, because through this magazine we know the activities of the Work all over the world. I thank my Lord for letting me be part

RAMÓN SANTIAGO Brothers and sisters of the WMM, I thank God for giving me the privilege of receiving the Impacto Evangelistic magazine in its extended version. The magazine is really beautiful, inspiring and informative. God bless you. From New York, United States.

of this precious work created for the last times. You are in our prayers, receive a fraternal embrace. From Formosa, Argentina.

JUAN RUIZ God bless all who visit this website, as well as its editors. I find it very interesting and wonderful; its life stories are truly impressive and edifying. Continue the path of the Lord. From Cali, Colombia.

CARLOS CABEZAS God bless all the brothers and sisters in Christ. Keep doing this wonderful work. May God continue to bless you. From Bolívar, Colombia.

ALEX CONTRERAS Until a few days ago I was unaware of this great means that God has allowed for these times. We hope that it improves every day in order to continue edifying the people of God. From Lima, Peru.

JACQUELINE CENTELLA God bless you greatly. I got your Internet address. I hope to visit you one day. The work you do is commendable. From La Paz, Bolivia.

IVÁN HUAYANA God bless all the Officers of the WMM. Impacto Evangelistic magazine is really very beautiful and edifying. The Gospel is reaching the whole world. From Moquegua, Peru.

You can download the free QR code reader from these platforms: n Past events n Future events MISSIONARY MOVEMENT 66 WORLDWIDE America • Europe • Oceanía • África • Asia

The best animated production that tells amazing stories MONDAY 10 AM / 4 PM - PERU

Bethel Television, the Worldwide Missionary Movement channel, broadcasts the Word of Godâ€™s message through cultural and educational programs from Lima - Peru to the world by 7 satellites and the Internet.

january 2018 / Impacto evangelistic

National Convention

La Macarena Convention Center- Medellín From February 9 to 16

MOVIMENTO MISSIONARY MONDIALE COLOMBIA MISSIONARY MOVEMENT 68 WORLDWIDE America • Europe • Oceanía • África • Asia